Backyard Fires: Newton vs Somerville
How do backyard fires rules compare between Newton, MA and Somerville, MA?
Newton has fewer restrictions than Somerville.
Newton, MA
Middlesex County
Recreational backyard fires in Newton are allowed in contained pits with clean wood; open brush fires need a seasonal permit and follow 310 CMR 7.07 burn rules.
View full Newton rules →Somerville, MA
Middlesex County
Recreational cooking fires are allowed only if they meet 527 CMR 1.00 clearance rules. Open burning of yard waste is prohibited year round under state no-burn designation.
View full Somerville rules →Key Facts Comparison
| Fact | Newton | Somerville |
|---|---|---|
| Allowed Fuel | Clean seasoned wood | - |
| Setback | 25 feet from structures | - |
| Prohibited | Leaves, trash, treated wood | - |
| Supervision | Adult required | - |
| Complaint Line | Newton 311 | - |
| Cooking fires | - | Allowed with 15 ft clearance |
| Yard waste burning | - | Never permitted |
| Size limit | - | 3 ft diameter and height |
| Attendance | - | Adult with extinguisher |
| Nuisance authority | - | Somerville Fire |
Highlighted rows indicate differences between cities.
Newton FAQ
Can I have a bonfire in my Newton backyard?
Small recreational fires in contained pits are allowed, but large bonfires require a permit from Newton Fire Department and are generally restricted.
What if my neighbor backyard fire is smoking into my house?
Call Newton 311 or Fire Department non-emergency to report nuisance smoke; they can order the fire extinguished.
Somerville FAQ
Can I cook over a fire in my backyard?
Yes, if the fire is small, 15 feet from structures, and attended. Density makes this hard on most Somerville lots.
Can I burn leaves in the fall?
No. Somerville is a no-burn community with no seasonal burn permits issued.
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